New malaria mosquito emerges in African cities, and experts are worried

(CNN)A new malaria mosquito is emerging in African cities, with potentially devastating consequences for those living there, according to a new study.

The larvae of Anopheles stephensi -- India's main mosquito vector of malaria -- are now "abundantly present" in locations across Africa, researchers from The Netherlands' Radboud University Medical Center and Ethiopia's Armauer Hansen Research Institute said. Vectors are living organisms that can transmit infectious pathogens between humans, or from animals to people.

This mosquito species only appeared in Africa a few years ago. Now, this invasive insect is "abundantly present" in water containers in cities in Ethiopia -- and highly susceptible to local strains of malaria, researchers have said.

Most African mosquitoes that can transmit malaria are known to breed in rural areas. However, experts were already concerned this particular mosquito has found a foothold in urban areas, including cities in Ethiopia, Sudan and Djibouti, which researchers said could increase the malaria risk for urban populations.

Further explore this new malaria mosquito by finding the complete article written by Amy Woodyatt here.

LAST UPDATED

October 21, 2024

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

CNN

Media Mentions from CNN

Instant breaking news alerts and the most talked about stories.

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Jennifer Pharr Davis
Hiker, Speaker, Author

Media Mentions

“Our mission is for everyone in the world to have access to clean water,” maintained Beth.

KNA
KNA Press

Media Mentions

We tested four portable water filters and recommend the Sawyer Mini Water Filter.

Doug Mahoney and Joshua Lyon
Staff Writers